About the Over 35 Hockey League
A competitive, welcoming hockey community for players over 35 — founded in 2006 in Charleston, South Carolina.
Where it started
Founded in 2006 by Andrew Miller, the Over 35 Hockey League at the Carolina Ice Palace in Charleston, South Carolina, was built with a simple vision: create a competitive, welcoming hockey community where players over the age of 35 could continue playing the game they love in the right spirit.
A longtime sports journalist, recreational hockey player, sports fan, and passionate community builder, Andrew recognized that many adult hockey leagues had earned a reputation for becoming overly physical, chippy, and driven by ego. He believed there was a better way.
From the beginning, the Over 35 Hockey League was founded on the principles of sportsmanship, fair play, friendship, and respect. While every game is played with intensity and a desire to win, the league has always prioritized character over conflict. Opponents battle hard for three periods, shake hands at the final buzzer, and then share a beer together afterward.
What truly sets the league apart, however, happens away from the rink.
Andrew Miller
Founder
League at a glance
- Founded
- 2006
- Founder
- Andrew Miller
- Location
- Charleston, SC
- Home rink
- Carolina Ice Palace
- Game night
- Thursdays
- Teams
- 8
- Age group
- 35 and up
Bigger than hockey
The community Andrew envisioned extends far beyond Thursday nights at the Carolina Ice Palace. When one of our own is facing hardship, the league rallies together. Whether organizing charity games, supporting GoFundMe campaigns, raising money for families in need, or simply showing up for a teammate during life's toughest moments, our players consistently demonstrate that being part of this league means being part of something bigger than hockey.
The Over 35 Hockey League is more than a place to play. It is a community built on friendship, respect, and shared experiences. It is a league where fierce competitors become lifelong friends, where teammates become family, and where everyone who steps onto the ice understands that the bonds formed here matter just as much as the final score.
For us, hockey is the game that brings us together. The community is what keeps us coming back.
Our code
Respect the game
Play hard, play clean. Referees' calls are final and handshakes are mandatory.
Everyone plays
Balanced rosters and fair ice time. This is rec hockey — everyone gets their shifts.
Safety first
Full equipment required, certified officials, and a zero-tolerance policy for reckless play.
Have Fun
The scoreboard resets every week. The friendships last. Buy your buddies a bucket before last call.
Frequently asked questions
Who can play in the Over 35 League?
Any adult hockey player aged 35 and over. Skill levels range from returning rec players to former competitive players and retired professionals. The league keeps rosters balanced so games stay fun and competitive.
How does the draft work?
All registered players are assigned a skill rating and entered into the draft pool. Captains select a draft position at random, and draft their team each season. Every season each team is different. This makes for balanced skill levels on all teams.
Can I register without a team?
Yes. That's the only way to do it, as captains are already assigned. Sign up as an individual player and you will be drafted to a team before the start of the season.
What equipment do I need?
Full protective gear is required: helmet with cage or shield, skates, gloves, elbows, shin guards, and pants are required. Shoulder pads are optional.
When and where are games played?
Games are played every Thursday night at the Carolina Ice Palace in North Charleston, SC across two sheets of ice, the Palace and Royal rinks. Game times are published before the start of every season, and typically begin after 7:30PM.
How does the season work?
Each team plays a full regular season schedule of 12-14 games followed by a single-elimination playoff bracket seeded by the final standings. The top six out of eight teams at the end of the regular season make the playoffs.
Join an Upcoming Season
Join the Over 35 Hockey League
Register as a player to join the wait list for an upcoming season. Players 35 and up of all levels welcome. You will be notified by the league commissioner when there is an opening.